Pilot flight time information is often available in a spreadsheet file (.xls, .numbers, .csv etcetera) from an employer's crew scheduling software, other electronic logbook applications, or from home-made logbook files using spreadsheet applications.
Transcribing entries from a paper logbook into a simple spreadsheet can be very efficient. You can then send this file to Coradine Support for import into LogTen, or import the file yourself. A simple template for transcription is available to download at the bottom of this article.
LogTen's method of importing data is extremely flexible, so basically any spreadsheet format can be imported without much trouble. Here are some tips to end up with the best possible import:
Use a Separate Column for Each Data Point
LogTen has data fields for nearly everything, and you can use custom fields for anything else. If you enter data in your Remarks (approaches, holds, etc.), transfer this data into its own column.
Consistent Date Format
It is difficult to verify date formats after they're entered, so it is important to use the same date format throughout the whole document for the best import. Any standard date format is acceptable though, e.g. dd/MM/yy, yyyy-MM-dd, MM/dd/yy). Remove any empty dates as they will be imported as blank flights.
Consistent Time Format
Times must be in the same format, whether decimal (0.0), two decimal (0.00), hh:mm (00:00), or hh+mm(00+00).
Separate Route Column
Some logbook formats include the Route information in the Remarks/Notes column, but it'll be much easier to import if the Route info is entered as its own column.
Consistent Route Format
Entering each airport separated by a dash. Individual From/To columns are fine as well. ICAO airport codes should be in a full four-character format (i.e. continental US airports start with a "K"). ICAO codes import more accurately than IATA.
Use a Single Tab in a Single File
Do not separate months or years of entries by tabs or worksheets. Multiple files can be combined, but it will save time if all the information is in one spreadsheet file.
Aircraft Category/Class and Engine Type Columns are Not Necessary
LogTen calculates times such as multi-engine land and turbo-prop by using information from the Aircraft Type. You do not need a separate column for this information. Please see Overview of Types Tab for more information. Consider using ICAO Aircraft Type Designators. This will enable LogTen to utilize it's built-in database to auto-complete information for the Aircraft Type.
Additional assistance with this or any other LogTen issue is available here or by contacting support in the app by going to More > Help > Contact Support.
Comments
Great write-up, but I'd love to see the sample spreadsheet file also available in .csv and .xlsx formats.
Hi Doug. I added a CSV version to the article. Thanks for the feedback!
Is there something special that has to be done for dates prior to Y2K? I want to import all my flight time from the 1970's. Thanks!
Hi aviatorman79
Nothing different needs to be done. Should import the same
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